The real winners in Iowa were: Donald Trump, because turnout was low, and anything that makes government look ridiculous works in the GOP’s favor; Bernie Sanders, who apparently prevailed in the fundi primary; and Michael Bloomberg, who spent his time elsewhere. The apparent losers are: Iowa, for obvious reasons; Elizabeth Warren, who needed a win and probably didn’t get one; and Joe Biden, who clearly underperformed. He’ll be happy to get out of town.
The ultimate test for Warren comes in New Hampshire. If she doesn’t win there, she’s probably finished. Biden needs a really strong finish in Nevada, a win in South Carolina, and a massive win on Super Tuesday. Mayor Pete has to prove he can win minority votes. If all of them fail, Bloomberg starts looking like a viable choice for the realos.